Chinese New Year 2024 in Edinburgh

Edinburgh holds an impressive Chinese New Year celebration every year, between late January and late February. The program of the festivities is rich with cultural events and entertainment, including art installations, concerts, walking trails, and various activities.

Edinburgh Chinese New Year Festival (February 8–13, 2024)

Edinburgh’s Chinese New Year Festival is comprised of a set of events and activities running throughout the city. This large celebration involves universities, museums, cultural institutions, businesses, and hotels. The actual program differs yearly, but you can always count on some huge Chinese lantern displays, concerts, lion dances, and lots of fantastic activities on the bill.

Chinese New Year Light Show at Edinburgh Castle (February 2024, TBA)

Don't miss the sight of the gorgeous Edinburgh Castle, which is decked out in red to mark the Chinese New Year! The dazzling light show celebrating Lunar New Year on the walls of the city's most magnificent monument promise you a one-of-a-kind experience.

Chinese New Year Gala Concert (February 2024, TBA)

Another highlight of the celebration in Edinburgh is the official Chinese New Year Gala Concert. It usually features Edinburgh Symphony Orchestra and Chinese performers, such as Guizhou Song and Dance Troupe, Qindao Opera House Symphony Orchestra or Chinese Children's Orchestra.

CNY at the Royal Botanic Garden and Edinburgh Zoo (TBA)

The Royal Botanic Garden and Edinburgh Zoo often host special events dedicated to the most important Chinese celebration. The Great Lanterns of China exhibit at Edinburgh Zoo, featuring giant illuminated Chinese and Scottish mythical creatures, has been drawing rather large crowds.